The Smith Families of Des Moines County, Iowa

WILLIAM H. SMITH.

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His ])political allegiance was given to the Democracy: and. well fitted for leadership, he was several times elected to the.State Legislature. He served as a member of the Legislature when its sessions were held at (green l>ay. Wis., traveling by land and camping out on the trip. The country was not settled, at that time Iowa being a part of Wisconsin Territory. He was also a member of the House after Iowa Ix-came a State, and he erected a building in Uurlington in which the sessions of the Legislature were held for some time. This building, which stood beside his store, was destroyed by fire during the first session of the Legislature.

He was a man of superior individuality, firm in his convictions, and of strong purposes, and he left his impress for good upon the legislation of the State and its development along other lines. At the time of the I'.lack Hawk war he joined the army, serving until the close of hostilities. A part of his farm is comprised in what is now known as Smith's addition to the city of Uurlington. and ])art of which is still owned by William H. Smith. His wife, who was born in Ohio, became a resident of Illinois at a very early day, and was there married.

As printed in the source¹. Wording is the original; obvious scanning errors have been corrected, and a few may remain.

THOMAS LEANDER SMITH.

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Thomas Leander Smith was the second son in a family of five sons and seven daughters, and was reared upon the old home farm amid pioneer surroundings and environments. In 1861 he enlisted in the Thirty-ninth Volunteer Infantry, and was with his company at Fort Madison and Davenport; but after two months he was rejected, his teeth not being sufficiently strong to bite off the cartridge. He remained on the home farm until twenty-five years of age, when he started out in life on his own account. He had acquired a good education in the public schools, and followed teaching for about fifteen years. He then began farming by renting land, and was thus engaged until 1886. when he began teaming at I'.burlington, Iowa, at which he continued for two years. He also became the owner of two houses and lots in Turlington, which he afterward sold, and purchased his present farm of eight and one-half acres, one-half mile north of Doddsville, taking up his above in the residence upon this place in 1889. In 1902 he bought thirty acres of land on Section 18, Franklin township, of which twenty-five acres was timber land.

As printed in the source¹. Wording is the original; obvious scanning errors have been corrected, and a few may remain.

PETER SMITH was born at '-The Lion," Eastburn, Yorkshire, England, May 13, 1795, and when fourteen years old was placed in a counting-house, where he remained five years, and then returned to his father's farm, residing there until he was married, on the 26th of January, 1819. His wife was Miss Martha Ellison, of Sutton, in the same county, the day of her birth being Jan. 2, 1800. Her father was a miller of Barnoldswick, and she was the eldest office children. For about two years after their marriage, Mr. Smith carried on farming at Earn Hill, and then he went into milling and merchandizing at Sutton. Going to Clcckheaton, in Yorkshire, in 1826, he again engaged in milling, continuing there until 1835. His large family, and the declining prospects of business, induced him to consider the subject of emigration, and reluctantly they left their native land and comfortable home to secure for their children, eight in number, a better chance to start in life. In April, 1834, they left Liverpool, and in due time reached New York; thence, by lake and river, to Beardstown, Ill. Mr. Smith intended to locate in Sangamon or Morgan Counties, in that State, but, hearing of the Black Hawk purchase, turned his attention to Iowa. On their way, by teams across the country% they lost liieir youngest child, Albert, aged eight months, near Rushville, and his remains were brought on and buried at their new home. On the 1.5th of August, 1835, the family' crossed the Mississippi River, and from henceforth were identified with the young and growing community of Burlington. Mr. Smith bought from a Mr. Bullard a claim supposed to be about 320 acres, but afterward found by survey to exceed 370. Upon it there was a cabin, and ten acres were cleared. He was molested somewhat by squatters, who tried to jump his claim, and on one occasion the settlers, to the number of 200 or more, came to his assistance, and peaceably removed from his land a man whom he had warned off, and burned his cabin. In about four years the land came into market, and Mr. Smith procured the title from the Government. This tract of land, which was the northwest portion of section 19 and a part of section 18, about three miles southwest of Burlington, became, and remains, the homestead of the family, in connection with some additions made since. The family were comfortably guarded against the weather, but they were often without necessary food during the first year,.and Mrs. Smith relates how once her husband went to get flour at Burlington to quiet the children, who were crying for bread, and returned empty-handed; at another time, when the wife was sick in bed, the promise of a potato by a kind neighbor seemed to her like a special blessing. For four years they had not a table in their cabin, and for some time bedsteads were an unknown convenience. During these early pioneer d.ays the Sac and Fox Indians were numerous and frequent visitors, but troubled them for naught except food, fresh beef being their preference, and the children learned much of the Indian dialect, which is an evidence of the familiar and friendly relations then existing with the aborigines. As early as 1841, Mr. Smith began lime burning, being one of the first and largest dealers in this article; but he kept on with the improvement of his 0

DES MOINES COU>fTY.

farm, and after a while engaged in the stock feeding business. He raised wheat for sale, but all other produce he endeavored to have consumed on the farm.

The prosperity that follows methodical business habits and energy of purpose attended Mr. Smith and his family without interruption after the first privations of frontier life had been overcome, and we pass down to the year 1869 to notice an event that is allotted by Providence to a very few. On the 21st of January, 1869, fifty j'ears from the day the youthful couple stood up in the quiet English church and joined their hands and hearts for life, they again stood up before their children and children's children, to celebrate their golden wedding. In rehearsing the joys and sorrows of the past, their tedious struggles up, and peaceful passage down, the hill of life, and in thanks, congratulations and good cheer the day was passed. Before night closed the scene, the fervent words of that grand old hymn (Mr..Smith's favorite), "Before Jehovah's awful throne," united all hearts and voices in praise to the Almighty, and thus this anniversary was ended. There were i)present upon this occasion all but one of their ten children, and nearly all of their tvvent3'-two grand-children, with many old and valued friends.

But little over a year from this glad occasion, on the 25th of January, 1870, a sorrowful group gathered under the same roof, for the loving husband and kind father was upon his bed of death. In the seventy-fifth year of his age, after a brief illness from congestion of the lungs, Mr. Smith departed this life, and in the cemetery at Burlington the marble column indicates the resting-place of one of the pioneers of Des Moines County, one of her distinguished characters, "an honest man, the noblest work of God."

By virtue of a strong mind and thorough early training, Mr..Smith became, and was, early recognized as an accurate business man, and in complicated matters his advice was often sought. His books and papers, carefully kept until the last month of his life, show a clear head and a steady hand such as is hardly ever seen in men who have passed their three-score years and ten. In politics he was a Whig until the dissolution of that party, and afterward generally acted with the Democratic party. He steadily refused all offers of political promotion, and was prouder to be a citizen of the Republic than an officer of any degree. He was possessed of strong moral sentiments, and lived and acted upon the principles of conscience with regard to sectarian views, though in religious opinions he was inclined toward the Congregational Church. In person he was of commanding carriage and pleasant address; of social and friendly disposition; enjoyed vigorous health; maintained active habits, and came to the city almost daily until five days before his death. The children living are: Ann. wife of W. C. Hunt; John, Ellison,.Samuel, William, Edward, James; Jane, wife of W. J. Finch; George and Sarah; besides these, five died in infancy. All of the above are residing in Iowa, except Mrs.

As printed in the source². Wording is the original; obvious scanning errors have been corrected, and a few may remain.

HON. ELLISON SMITH.

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The father, who was also a native of Yorkshire, was by trade a miller, following that occupation in I-".ngl;nul; but on coming to America he purchased a farm of three hundred acres three miles south of r.burlington, Iowa, and devoted himself to agriculture. Cira])ling with the hard problems of pioneer life and frontier conditions, he cleared away the encumbering forests, free the productive forces of the soil, erected buildings, and established a home for himself and his family. It was here that he resided until the lime of his death, which occurred in 1870, at the age of seventy-five years. He was a member of the Episcopal church, maintaining this connection through life, and while he was always wisely conservative in all things, he was a friend of true ])progress, and attained a gratifying degree of pecuniary prosperity. The mother of Ellison Smith was also a native of England, and she attained to the age of eighty-one years, her death occurring in 1881. She is survived by five children, all of whom are residents of the Middle West.

Mr. Smith obtained his formal education almost wholly in his native country, the only schooling which he received subsequent to his tenth year being that of a six weeks' term in the public schools of Burlington township, Des Moines county. Despite the meagerness of his early advantages, however, he formed a taste for reading, which he always retained, and through habits of reflection and intelligent observation he became possessed of the extensive knowledge and broad views which made him a man of true and universal culture. With the exception of a short period, during which he learned and worked at the brickmaker's trade, he remained with his parents until his twenty-sixth year.

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As printed in the source¹. Wording is the original; obvious scanning errors have been corrected, and a few may remain.

SAMUEL SMITH, general farmer and stock-raiser, residing on section 19, Burlington Township, Des Moines County, Iowa, was born in Cleckheaton, Yorkshire, England, Oct. 2G, 1826. At the age of four he began attending school in his native country, continuing his studies until the age of nine, when the family emigrated to America. He resided upon his father's farm until 1850, when, deciding to go West, he started with an ox-team over the plains, the journey consuming three months and twenty days, and at the end of that time arrived at Ringgold, Cal. Near that town he began digging gold, being quite successful, and by economical living was able to lay up some money. Leaving California in the summer of 1851, Mr. Smith made a visit to his old home, remaining there until the following spring, when, accompanied by his brother William, he once more made the trip to California, again crossing the plains with a team, and remained there until 1861, engaged in mining and tending water works. On the breaking out of the late war, Mr. Smith gave proof of his patriotism by enlisting at the President's first call for troops. Becoming a member of the 4th California Infantry, he served three years, having charge of a scouting party for about half of the time, the regiment doing duty in Arizona, New Mexico and Washington Territory. He was discharged from the service at the close of the war at Fort Juma, Cal. He was a brave and gallant soldier, always ready for the performance of any duty.

After being discharged Mr. Smith went up into the mountains for a month or so for the purpose of recruiting his health. Then proceeding to Santa Cruz County he remained there until October, 1865.

Returning home at that time he took charge of the home farm, which occupation he has still continued and 250 broad acres pay tribute to his labors. This farm, known as Rockwood Giange, is one of the best cultivated in Burlington Township. Mr. Smith has long been identified with the leading business interests of the county, and in connection with his farm is associated in the Island Mills, together with other minor interests. For some time he has been in failing health, probably- on account of disease contracted in the army. He is a member of Des Moines Lodge, No. 1., A. F. & A. M., Iowa Chapter, No. 1, R. A. M., St. Omar Commandery. No. 15, K. T. He also belongs to the Matthias Post, No. 5, G. A. R., and Washington Lodge, No. 1, I. O.

As printed in the source². Wording is the original; obvious scanning errors have been corrected, and a few may remain.

SAMUEL SMITH.

S.XMUEL S.MiTii, deceased, was a representative of one of the oldest pioneer families in Des Moines county, and was himself an honored citizen of the county for many years: but it is not these facts alone that entitle him to mention in this volume, but because of his activity in agricultural circles, his honor in business life, his loyalty in citizenship, and his devotion to all that pertains to the welfare and progress of his town, township] and county. He also served his adopted country with much bravery and fortitude. Mr. Smith was born at Cleckheaton, Yorkshire, England, Oct, 26, 1826. His parents, Peter and Martha (Ellison) Smith, were also natives of England, his father being born in Yorkshire, Mav 13, 1795. His mother was born in Sutton, Jan. 22, 1800, and was the eldest of five children.

Mr. and Mrs. Smith were married, when very young, in England, where the former was engaged in farming and milling till 1835, when the declining prospects of business led

As printed in the source¹. Wording is the original; obvious scanning errors have been corrected.

Perh.ps nothing else is so well calculated to inspire the present generation with justifiable local pride, with love of country and home, and with exalted ideals of conduct, as a study of the lives of those who have made the great Middle West what it is to-day, — a marvel of wealth, industry, and high civilization. Among the earlier residents of Union township — where he owns farms aggregating two hundred and sixty acres, with a beautiful home farm of eighty-five acres located three miles west of the city of Burlington — is Andrew Smith, who was born in Burlington on the 5th day of January, 1841, a son of Peter and Anna Smith. His father, who was born in Germany on the banks of the classic Rhine, married in his native land, and thence came to the United States in 1835, locating first in Cincinnati, where he remained until 1839. Thence he came 'est and took up his residence in what is now the city of Burlington, finding temporary employment in the new settlement as a butcher. This occupation, however, he shortly afterward abandoned for the life of the farm, and after conducting agricultural operations in the vicinity of the city for a few years, bought a tract of two hundred acres on the Lower Augusta road. There and at the homestead now occupied by his son, our subject, he resided until 1866, when he retired from active life and removed to Burlington, where his demise occurred on Jan. 15, 1890, his own death having been preceded by that of his wife, who died in 1879. They were among the early members of the Catholic church in this portion of Iowa, becoming identified with St. John's church on its organization, and-were among the chief contributors to the fund for building the first house of worship as well as later edifices. They were the parents of nine children, seven of whom survived to mature years.

Andrew Smith is the youngest son of the family of which he is a member, two sisters, however, being younger than he. While a boy he devoted himself to securing an education, but was compelled to be content with only a modicum of formal learning, as in the primitive country schools of those pioneer days the session lasted as a rule but four months out of each year. Moreover, when but ten years of age he began to bear a share of the hard work of the farm. Thus he received the best of training in what was to be the work of his life, and while yet a young man relieved his father of the work so that the latter might retire.

On April 23, 1869, he wedded Miss Kate Fritz, who died a few years later, leaving three children: Edward, a farmer of Union township; Anna, who died at Peoria, Ill., while a sister in a convent at that place; and Andrew T., also engaged in farming in Union township. After his marriage Mr. Smith began operating the home farm independently, having purchased it of his father, and this has ever since been the place of his residence. He has constantly improved the home and surroundings, making it one of the most notable country residences in this vicinity, and has from time to time added to his real estate holdings until he ranks among the leading land owners of Union township.

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As printed in the source¹. Wording is the original; obvious scanning errors have been corrected, and a few may remain.

EDWARD J. SMITH.

Edward J. Smith, one of the successful and enterprising younger farmers of Union township, where he operates about two hundrctl and seventy acres of land, is a son of Andrew and Kate Smith, and was born in the township where he now resides, Marcli l8, 1870. An interesting sketch of his father will appear on another pac in this book. After receiving a good and substantial education in the district schools of the township, he spent three years at St. John's Catliniic school in FUirlington. Returning home, he stayed with his father on the farm for some time, and later spent one year in the machine shop of the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad located at West Burlington, where he learned much about machinery that would be of good use to him on the farm in the future. Indoor work did not seem to satisfy him as well as rural life, and he went back to his father, and worked till he was twenty-one years old. About this time he began farming on his own responsibility, renting first a farm in Middletown, which he worked three years. Selling out his stock and implements he moved to the city of Burlington, and engaged in the manufacture of boxes, which he carried on for one year. The ne.xt six months he was with the Street Car Company, at the end of which he moved onto his present place, adjoining the county poor farm. Beside the farm owned by his father, he rents other land, and is engaged in general farming and the raising of fine cattle and hogs. He is also part owner of a fine coach-horse stallion, and is in that way l)cttering the class of stock in the vicinity.

April II, 1893, Mr. Smith was united in marriage with Miss Jennie Lee, of Burlington, where she was educated and grew to womanhood. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Smith were born two children, Marie and Helen. Mr. and Mrs. Smith are devoted members and liberal sup])orders of St. John's Catholic church, of Burlington. He has always given his political allegiance to the Democratic party, but has never cared to hold any office of honor or trust. By his own energy and upright dealing in all things he has achieved his success in business, and at the same time won the regard and respect of all those with whom he comes in contact in the daily walks of life.

As printed in the source¹. Wording is the original; obvious scanning errors have been corrected, and a few may remain.

JOSEPH F. SMITH.

Joseph F. Smith, one of the prominent and active younger farmers of Union township. where he owns and operates a fine farm of thirty acres about three fourths of a mile from the city limits of Burlington, was born in the same neighborhood, on his father's old homestead, April 1, 1876. He is a son of Andrew and Anna Smith. The sketch of his parents will be found on another page in this volume.

Our subject received a good practical education in the Buena Wista School of the township, and later attended Elliott's Business College, at Burlington, where he took a general business course, After this he was employed for one year by the Penrose Carriage Campany, when he accepted a position as clerk in the large department store of John Boesch. Mr. Smith remained with Mr. Boesch for four years, and made a very good and accommodating salesman, and was well liked both by his employer and the patrons: but he preferred the independence and comforts of suburban life, and in 1905 he purchased thirty acres of good farm land from R. C. Waddle. He devotes most of his time to the raising of fruit, having a fine apple orchard of twelve acres, one of the largest and best pear orchards (four acres) in this part of the country, and one acre of the nicest plums to be found. His several orchards mentioned, as well as all other smaller fruit raised by him, are attended by modern methods, and will produce the finest fruit for the local markets.

May 7, 1900, Mr. Smith married Miss Gussie Lee, a daughter of Mrs. Mary Lee, of Burlington, where she was reared and received her education in the public schools. Mr. and Mrs. Smith are the parents of one daughter, Marens.

In politics Mr. Smith is independent. He and his good wife were brought up in the Catholic faith, and are members and regular attendants of St. John's church. While he is yet a young man, still he has developed those qualities that tend to success and the winning of friends. The early training he received for his work, together with his thorough business education, both place him in a position to carry out his cherished aspirations, and in a short time he will be independent.

As printed in the source¹. Wording is the original; obvious scanning errors have been corrected, and a few may remain.

A. J. SMITH.

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1818 Daniel and Isabel Smith emigrated westward to Washington county, Indiana, where for five years he engaged in the operation of rented land, and then removed to Rush county, Indiana, in 1823. frontier district, he was enabled to purchase government land, and secured a tract of eighty acres covered with timber. There were many Indian settlements in that portion of the State, and the pioneers were just planting the seeds of civilization and improvement. Mr. Smith built a little cabin and began the difficult task of cutting down the trees, clearing away the brush and roots, and preparing the land for the plow. \\hen he had cleared a small portion, a crop would be planted; and for twelve years he continued the work of improving his farm, in the meantime increasing its area by the purchase of an additional eighty-acre tract. He then sold his farm and removed to Hancock county, Indiana, where he ])purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land, continuing its cultivation until his life's labors were ended in death, Dec. 29, 1848, when he had reached the age of sixty-five years, ten months and twelve days. His wife long surviving him, died Aug. 15, 1864, at the advanced age of eighty-one years and twenty-three days. He was a Whig in his political views, and while living in Rush county, and again in Hancock county, he served as probate judge, and his efforts proved a substantial factor in iil)hi>ldiiig the political and moral states (jf the pioneer localities with which he was connected, while his labors advanced the material development. Both he and his wife were members of the Presbyterian church. They were the parents of sixteen children, and with one exception all reached adult age.

A. J. Smith accompanied his parents on their various removals until he reached the age of twenty-five years, and knew full well the difficulties and hardships which must be met in a frontier district; for he experienced many of these in his youth as, living in a pioneer log cabin, he assisted in the arduous task of developing a new farm. He realized also that a frontier region offered good opportunities to the agriculturist, and accordingly, in 1837, he came to Des Moines county, Iowa, which was at that time a part of the Territory of Wisconsin, locating first in Pleasant Grove township, where he purchased one hundred and twenty acres of land on Section 10. He continued its improvement for twelve years, and then bought a farm on Section 11, which he made his home for ten years, removing, at the expiration of that period, to Washington township. After three years, however, he returned to Pleasant Grove township, settling on Section 15, where he remained for twenty years, when he took up his above on Section 5, where he remained until retiring from active business and locating in Yarmouth. After the death of his wife, which occurred July 14, 1897, he made his home with his children, Fredrick N. and Mary J. Redfern.

His activity in business affairs may be judged from the fact of his extensive investments, his capital being secured entirely through his own labors. After giving to each of his children a farm, he still retained possession of fifteen hundred and eighteen acres of land in Des IMoines county. As his father was a poor man, he received no financial assistance at the beginning of his business career, but on the contrary worked for twenty-five cents per day, when he started out in life.

W'hen he came to the West,, he had sixty-four dollars in money and two ox-teams, and with these he began breaking prairie. As his financial resources increased he bought land from time to time, and through cultivation and the consequent rise in property values, incident to the settlement of the country, this property commanded a high market price.

j\lr. Smith was ably assisted and encouraged by his wife, who was indeed a faithful helpmate and companion to him on life's journey. On the 18th of April, 1847, he married Miss Jane Westfall, a native of New York, born June 20, 1829. They became the parents of twelve children: Francis M., born March 20, 1848, a resident of Pleasant Grove township; Frederick N., of Burlington: Isabella, bom Aug. 30, 1852, now the wife of David L. Davis, of Clinton, Mo.; Asbury D., born March 17, 1854, living in Keokuk county, Iowa; A. J., born "June I, 1856, of Colony, Kans.; Mary J., born March 26, 1858, the wife of Ira Redfern, a retired farmer of New London, Henry county, Iowa; R. A., born April 8, 1860, now living in New London; A. E., born Feb. 18, 1862, a resident of New London; John H., born Oct. 30, 1864, residing in Des Moines county; Minnie, bom Nov. 12, 1865, the wife of George Overman, of this county: Squire, born Nov. 18, 1867, residing in Washington township; and Ira, born Feb. 23, 1870, and now living in New London.

A. J. Smith, an advocate of Democratic principles, was elected on the party ticket to local offices of honor and trust. He filled several positions in his township, including that of trustee for several terms, and was also a member of the county board of supervisors for one temi. He accumu- BiouKArmcAL NEriEir ated wealth, yet there was no selfishness in the use which he niakIe nf it. To his family he was most kind anil generous, and he possessed a benevolent spirit that prompted ready and substantial assistance to those in need and to various charitable institutions. He was deeply interested in the cau.se of education, religion, and temperance, and in fact was the champion of all measures and methods which he believed would uplift humanity. His life development was like the substantial growth of the pioneer district with which he allied his interests at an early day — constantly broadening its outlook and its activities to meet the changing conditions of the times, and keeping abreast with the progress of public till Plight as well as the business transitions that bronglit material results. There was in him a ilejith of character and a weight of purpose that transcended all shams, and that won the recognition of his fellow-men in the respect and confidence which they so freely accorded him. He died Dec. i6, KJ02, and the remains of his wife rest by his side in Pleasant Grove township.

As printed in the source¹. Wording is the original; obvious scanning errors have been corrected, and a few may remain.

FRANK M. SMITH.

As an eminent 1\ successful farmer and business man and a n'ember of one of the older and letter-known families of Des Moines county, Frank M. Smith occupies in the community a position of considerable prominence. He is now residing on his large farm of three hundred and twenty acres in Section 15, Pleasant throne township, and besides the pursuit of agriculture is interested in a number of other prosperous enterprises. Mr. Smith was born in this township on.March jo. 1848, a son of Andrew J. and Jane (Westfall) Smith. The father was a native of the Olil Dtjminion, and was lion in Washington county, that State, Dec. 28, 181 1, first coming westward with his parents in 1817 and locating in Clarke county, Indiana. I'rom Indiana he came to Des Moines county, Iowa, in 1H43, arriving on the first day of May in that year, and settling in Pleasant Grove township). He was a poor man, his entire cajjital at that lime being about sixteen dollars in money; but he secured work plowing up the virgin ])prairie for other settlers, and by strenuous effort soon placed himself upon an independent footing, besides li(uidaling some iiulebtedness which he had previously incurred.

A few years after his arrival in the State he purchased a farm of eighty acres in this township] and on April 18, 1847, he married Miss Westfall. (puck peace])lion of oiiJortunity and an unfailing attention to his work marked him in all that he dikl. and he ra])idly achieved prosperiiN on a large scale. He increased his original ])purchase of land from time to time, and at one period was the owner of one thousand and three hundred acres in Des Moines county. His main interests were farming and the raising and feeding of cattle and high-grade stock. Hard and persistent work was the secret of his success. His education was rather limited.

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Politically a Democrat, he was honored by election to the office of county supervisor, and also was for a number of years trustee of his township. He and his wife were supporters of the Universalist church, which they attended. His death occurred Dec. i6, 1903, in Pleasant Grove township, and interment was at Pleasant Grove cemetery. He was a man of fine, strong, and upright character, an excellent example of American manhood at its best, and enjoyed the general respect in a remarkable degree.

The mother of our subject was born in Alleghany county. New York, June 20, 1829, and in girlhood came with her parents to Iowa, where her father died when she was quite young. She was the mother of a large family, there being twelve children, all of whom still survive. She died at Yarmouth, Washington township, in 1895.

Mr. Smith, the subject of this memoir, received the advantage of a good training in the district schools of his native township, and on attaining his majority purchased one of his father's farms, consisting of eighty acres near Yarmouth, where he conducted operations in the line of general farming and stock-raising for four years, at the expiration of which period he disposed of his holding and removed to Page county, Iowa. At the latter place he remained for two years, and then returned to Pleasant Grove township, there purchasing a farm, which he conducted for four years. Later he purchased, and for four years farmer one hundred and twenty acres of land in Keokuk county, and subsequently spent three very successful years on a farm of two hundred and ninety acres which he purchased in Jefferson county. Returning to Des Moines county, he purchased his present farm of three hundred and twenty acres, which lias been the place of his residence continuously ever since, and although the land was at that time already partially improved, he has by constant care and the expenditure of much time, energy, money, and thought, succeeded in raising it far above its former condition, and made it a model of its class. He had the misfortune to lose the original residence building by fire, but this he has replaced with a large and substantial dwelling-house. Besides general farming he has given much attention to the raising of fine stock, making a specialty of Shorthorn cattle and Chester White hogs, for both of which his farm has become widely and justly celebrated. He also raises some fine sheep and Angora goats, having two hundred of the latter at the present time.

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As printed in the source¹. Wording is the original; obvious scanning errors have been corrected, and a few may remain.

FREDERICK N. SMITH, a farmer residing on section 28, Washington Township, was born in Des Moines County, Iowa, Aug 28, 1850, and is the second son of A. J. and Jane (Westfall) Smith. The father was born in Virginia, and his parents were early settlers in Hancock County, Ind. When he was a young man he became a resident of Des Moines Count)', Iowa, when It was j'et a Territory. He made the journey from Indiana to this county with an ox-team, and had only $65 In money, with which he purchased fifty acres of land. He added to this until he owned 2.000 acres of fine land, which he divided, giving each of his children a farm. Mr. Smith was a member of the Board of County Commissioners, and he and his wife are still residing in Pleasant Grove Township, where they are highly esteemed as citizens.

On the 24th of Decemt)er, 1874, our subject was united in marriage with Miss Caroline Beck, of Pleasant Grove Township, who is a daughter of Conrad Beck, a large land owner. Three children have been born of their union, two of whom are living — William G. and Justice C. Webster died at the age of two and one-h.alf years. The first land which Mr. Smith purchased consisted of an elglitj- acre tract on section 28, in Washington Township, which comprises part of his present farm, although

-'►4h- he has added to it until lie now has 400 acres in Washington Township, and about 100 acres in Pleasant Grove Township. His home is one of the most pleasantly situated in the county, and everything upon his land shows him to be a thrifty, systematic and energetic farmer. He has recently had a new barn erected at a cost of about $2,000, and his cattle and horses are all thoroughbred and high grade. Since he was fifteen years old Mr..Smith has bought and shipped stuck, in which he has been quite successful, and now makes a specialty of the Polled Angus cattle. He is a member of the Townshi) Board, having held that office for five years, and is active in making out the township and county tickets. Politically". he is a supporter of the Democratic partly, and has been a Mason since his twenty-first year. Mrs. Smith is a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church.

As printed in the source². Wording is the original; obvious scanning errors have been corrected, and a few may remain.

JUSTUS C. SMITH.

Des Moines county is the birthplace of many of the men who have assisted in the improvement and upbuilding of many of the townships, and therefore they well deserve mention in a record among those who have been their companions for many years. Justus C. Smith is a son of Senator F. X. Smith, whose sketch appears on another page in this book, and was born in Yarmouth, Washington township, July 31, 1877, where he received his early education. He also attended the high school of Burlington, and then assisted on the home farm till he became a man.

On his twenty-first birthday he wedded Miss Katherine A. Weber, who was born in Burlington, and is the daughter of Henry and Margaret (Schenk) Weber, and to them has been born one child, Helen Leona. Mr. Weber was born in Alsace, France, and came to America when he was about eleven years of age, locating in the city of New Orleans, where he learned the butcher's trade. He had not been in New Orleans long when his father and brother were taken ill with the yellow fever, and died, and he at once brought his mother to Burlington, where he again obtained employment in a butcher shop. In a few years he entered into partnership with John Kauffer, under the firm name of Kauffer & Weber. This well-known firm continued business till 1893. when Mr. 'eber sold his interest in the meat market, and took up his above in Memphis, Mo., where he purchased a large farm of two hundred acres, upon which he farmer and lived till death overtook him in 1897, at the age of fifty years. Mrs. \\eber, who was born in Germany, came to the United States when she was about sixteen years of age, and is still living on the home farm in Memphis, Mo. Mr. and Airs, 'eber had five children, all of whom are living, and all, except Mrs. Smith, reside with their mother on the home place. They are: John H.; Katherine A., wife of our subject; Oscar W.; Clara; and Anna. Mrs.

Siiiitli received her education in the city schools of lUirlinpfton and also attended the Bentz conservatory of music in Memphis, Mo., making a study of the pianoforte.

Mr. Sniitli lives upon and works a fine farm of one hundred and sixty acres in Section 7, Washington township, on which he lias placed many good improvements. He carries on farming to a large extent with much success, as well as raising stock for the markets. Besides this property in IJes.Moines county Mr. Smith is interested in land near Xcss City, Kan. He is one of the stockholders of the Mutual Telephone Company of Yarmouth, and is one of the stand-by Democrats of the township.

.Mr. and Mrs. Smith are both members of the Methodist church, of Mt. Union..Although they have not been residents of Washington township for a great length of time, still they arc both well and favorably known, and by their upright lives and kind ways have won the confidence and good-will of the entire community.

As printed in the source¹. Wording is the original; obvious scanning errors have been corrected, and a few may remain.

FREDERICK ALONZO SMITH.

Frederick Alonzo S.miiii. at one time a promoter of manufacturing interests in Burlington, and active also as an operator in real estate, is now living retired in the enjoyment of a handsome competence that lias come to him as the direct reward of labors unremitting and honorable. Recogizing that his opportunity had come, and utilizing his possibilities in the field of practical business endeavor, he made his labors at once a source of profit to himself and also of value to the city in the promotion of its commercial activity.

Mr. Smith is a native of Massachusetts, his birth having occurred in Otis, Berkshire county, on Dec. 31, 1828, his parents being Enos and Millie MofTatt (Shaw) Smith. His paternal grandfather, Curtis Smith, was a resident of Haddam, Conn., where he followed the occupation of farming. He married Aseneth Brainard, and in later years removed to Otis, where his son Enos was then living. He had served as a captain in the State militia, and was prominent in community affairs, wielding a wide and beneficial influence.

[This passage is too damaged in the scanned book to reproduce. See the original book.]

Frederick.Monzo Smith, having acquired his early education in the schools of Otis, continued his studies in the Lee boarding schools, of which Alexander Hyde was master. He afterward remained at his father's home until his removal to the West in the fall of 1852. He located first at Chillicothe, Ohio, and there had what was known as a Yankee notion wagon, from which he sold goods in the outlying settlements beyond Chillicothe. Succeeding in that enterprise, he determined to carry his labors into other frontier districts, and in 1855 arrived in Burlingfton, Iowa. Here he made arrangements to travel for Samuel Robinson, and thus became one of the early commercial travelers of the State. At that time there were no railroads, and he made his trips with his own team, visiting all of the settled portions of Iowa. Following that pursuit until the fall of 1859, he then embarked in business on his own account, but still remained upon the road in connection with the cigar and tobacco trade, maintaining an office during this period in Burlington. In 1863 he opened a tobacco store and began the manufacture of cigars, also dealing in all goods of that line. His was one of the first extensive cigar manufacturing plants of Burlington. The business grew with the expansion of the city, and Mr. Smith improved every opportunity for broadening the scope of his business career. In 1866 he admitted George Scott to a partnership, and later the tobacco interests of Burlingfton were consolidated under the firm name of Smith, Scott & Company, an extensive plant being opened on Main Street, where employment was furnished to one hundred and fifty operatives. The firm added a general tobacco business, manufacturing all kinds of cigars and other manufactured products from the tobacco plant.

In connection with Mr. Scott, Mr. Smith purchased Mr. Bolton's interest in 1868, and the business was continued successfully until the fall of 1869, when a fire destroyed their plant and stock, involving them in great loss. They however resumed operations almost immediately, purchasing the large building at the corner of Valley and Third Streets, and equipping it for the continuance of their manufacturing interests and trade. This building was sixty by one hundred and twenty feet, four stories in height, with basement, and was a brick structure. ]\Mr. Smith also bought twenty feet of ground adjoining, on which he erected a four-story building for the firm of Acres, Blackmar & Company, which firm has since occupied it. Mr. Smith continued in the business until 1879, when another fire occurred. In the meantime Mr. Scott's interest had been purchased by Harry Cook, and the firm of Smith, Cook & Company was then formed. Following the fire of 1879 they settled up affairs and closed out the business.

Mr. Smith was also one of the promoters in the establishment of the Burlington Pickle factory, and the business was incorporated in r88o with Mr. Smith as president. He occupied that position for a number of years, during which time the business expanded until it reached large and profitable proportions. It is still in successful operation; and although Mr. Smith has severed his connection with the business, he still owns a half interest in the building in which it is carried on. He has invested quite extensively in real estate, being at one time the owner of large farming interests. He also built a beautiful home on the bluff, comer of Eighth and Columbia Streets, where he has extensive grounds.

[This passage is too damaged in the scanned book to reproduce. See the original book.]

As printed in the source¹. Wording is the original; obvious scanning errors have been corrected, and a few may remain.

WILLIAM COL'WELL SMITH.

William Colwell Smith, living on Section 5, Yellow Springs township, where he is engaged in general agriculture, was born in the city of Philadelphia, Pa., Jtme 21. 1846, his parents being Samuel and Jane (Smith) Smith. Both parents were natives of Ireland, in which country they were reared and married. In 1845 they crossed the Atlantic to the New World, and established their home in Philadelphia, where for a time the father occupied the ]5osition of watchman in the John T. Lewis Chemical and Lead Works. Later he was promoted to a position in the chemical department. In the year 1862 he brought his family to the Middle West, settling in Benton township, Des Moines county, Iowa, where he purchased one hundred and twenty three acres of land from E. D. Rand in Sections 7 and 8. Here he built a barn and improved the house, adding a kitchen and renovating the interior. He lived a quiet, unassuming life, but worked earnestly and persistently, and the traits of honorable manhood were daily manifest in his career. He continued to engage in farming upon this place until his death, which occurred June 28, 1870, when he was sixty-three years of age. His wife survived him until Nov. 23, 1871, and died at the age of fifty-two years. They were the parents of two children, of whom the daughter, Mary, died in Piiiladelphia at the age of three years.

William C. Smith, the only surviving member of the family, is indebted to the public schools of his native city for the educational privileges he enjoyed in his youth. He w-as about seventeen years of age when willi his parents he came to Des Moines county in 1862, and he remained with them on the old home farm until they were called to their final rest. He inherited the property, which he sold in 1900; and in the same year he bought property near Kossuth, becoming owner of thirty-one acres, which he purchased for his wife. He makes his home nn Section 5, Yellow Springs township, where he has a well-improved farm comprising ninety and a half acres. It is supplied with all modern conveniences and accessories, and in addition to this he has village property in Morning Sun, Louisa county, where he also has alxiut twenty-one acres. Everything about his place is kept in excellent repair, and his labors are attended with a gratifying measure of success.

lav 5, 1875, Mr. Smith was united in marriage to Miss Mary G. McMillan, a daughter of 'william and Margaret (Jackson) McMillan. She was born in Maysville, Ky., May 16, 1856, and in 1858 her parents came to Des Moines county, locating in Franklin township, where her father rented land for several years. He then removed with his family to Yellow Springs township, where he purchased a farm, continuing its cultivation up to the time of his death. He passed away in September, 1887, at the age of seventy-five years, while his wife, who long survived him, died Jan. 13, 1903, at the age of eighty years.

Mr. and Mrs. Smith have become the parents of four children: Jennie N., born May 15, 1878, now a teacher five miles west of Morning Sun; Lila X., born April 17, 1880, now a teacher in the Washington township district schools; Mabel B., bom Aug. 17, 1883, is a teacher in the Rockbottom school in Yellow Springs township; and Lena J., bom April 14, 1888, is at home.

The parents hold membership in the Reformed Presbyterian church, and are well known in the community, the hospitality of many of the best homes being extended to them. Mr. Smith has prospered in his business undertakings, paving so directed his efforts as to accomplish results, and in his career he has found that prosperity and an honorable name ma_\- be won simultaneously.

As printed in the source¹. Wording is the original; obvious scanning errors have been corrected, and a few may remain.

J. ALLISON SMITH, for ten years Principal of the High School, of Burlington, Iowa, was born near Wheeling, Ohio Co., W. Va., Sept. 5, 1815, and is a son of William C. Smith, who was also a native of West Virginia, born in 1797. John Allison Smith, the paternal grandfather, emigrated to the West from New England prior to the War of 1812. and in that war served under Gen. Jackson, of whom he was afterward a great admirer. William Smith also served in the whisky war of Pittsburgh, Pa. He wedded Miss Mary Neely. who was a native of Ireland, and came with her parents to America in childhood. Five children were born to this worthy couple: J.Allison, the subject of this sketch; Dorcas, wife of John Hosick; Elizabeth, wife of George Wright; Susan, wife of Thomas Todd; and William T., unmarried; the last four are residents of Leavenworth, Kan. They were all reared in the Presbyterian faith and are members of that church. Both Mr. and Mrs. Smith are now deceased, the former departed this life in 1843, the latter in 1851.

The subject of this sketch was reared on a farm, his primary education being received in the West Alexandria Academy, supplemented by a course in the Washington College in Washington County, Pa., where he was graduated in 1840. He cast his first presidential vote in 1 840. taking an active interest in that campaign, and in the same year he went to Mahoning County, Ohio, where he was in charge of the Canfield Academy. In 1843 he went to Wheeling, W. Va., there also having charge of the Wheeling Academy for four years, and later became Principal of the Florence (Pa.) Acadeniy. While in the latter place he obtained a position as a teacher in a private family at Milliken's Bend, La., at a salary of 82,000 per year, but through the perseverance and influence of his adviser, the Eev. W. D. Smith, who was strongly anti-slavery in his views, and dul not want him to go into a slave State, he abandoned the offer and was elected as Principal of the Lebanon Academy,.at Lebanon, Warren Co., Ohio. After continuing in that position for four years, he went to Springfield, Ohio, where he was instrumental in building the Springfield Female Seminary at a cost of $40,000. and was the largest stockholder, having charge of the school for nearly' four years, when, in 1857, he went to Edgar County, Ill., where he was Principal of the Edgar County Academy for five years. He then removed to Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, where he was employed as Princip.al of the High School until the breaking out of the Rebellion. Having many friends in the South, it was thought by some people of Mt. Pleasant that his sympathies might be with the people of that section. He was therefore called upon by some Republicans to ascertain his views in regard to the impending struggle. Feeling somewhat injured by the way he w.is approached, Mr. Smith mounted a stand, and in a speech made to a large crowd, which soon gathered round, he gave them to understand that his sympathies were wholly with the Union. It was now vacation time and he made a trip to the East. On his return to Mt. Pleasant he was greatly surprised to find a company which had been enlisted gathered at the depot to meet him, with a band of music.

Ills astonishment was even greater on being informed that he liakl been electefl Captain. Placed in a position from which lie hardly knew how to extricate himself, and having a family depending upon him for support, Mr. Smith asked the boys for a couple of days in which to consider their proposal, and, if he decided to go, to make arrangements for his family. Some of the prominent men of the city came forward and assured him that his wife and children should not want, and so he accepted the command, becoming Captain of Comiiany 15, 25th Iowa Infantry, and was mustered in at Mt. Pleasant. After remaining in camp at that city for a short time, the regiment was then ordered to St. Louis, expecting there to remain in camp for at least two months. The company had been well drilled at Mt. Pleasant by Col. Stone and Lieut. Brydolph, and on their arrival at St. Louis were anxious to make a display of their military proficiency, so calling on Gen. Curtis they performed a number of their best evolutions before him at his headquarters. To rcpa- their efforts the General at once gave orders for them to report to Gen. Gorman at Helena, so they had no camp life at St. Louis. Six companies left by boat for Helena that same day, and the other four were to follow on the morrow. Below Island No. 10 the boat ran ground (it being thought that it was done intentionally by the officers of the boat, who were evidently' in sympathy with the Confederates), and all efforts of the boat's crew to get it off were ineffectual. It seemed as if they were destined to stay there indefinitely. On the third day after their detention a small boat was seen coming down the river, upon which Capt. Smith took passage for Memphis for the purpose of securing relief. He arrived in that city about 10 o'clock at night, and there met an unexpected difficulty. The city was then under military law, of which fact the Captain was unaware, and when he had proceeded up the street for a short distance, he was met by a policeman who ordered him to stop, and on manifesting an unwillingness to do so, he was placed under arrest. Just at that moment an officer was passing with a relief corps to change the guard. Feeling that he belonged to the great army of the AVest and that he owed obedience to that power in preference to the civil authority, Capt. Smith at once requested the officer to take him to Gen. Sherman, with whom he had important business, never once stopping to reflect whether he had the right to do so nor did he know. All he wished was to see the General, and it proved very beneficial to him. Arriving at Sherman's headquarters at 12 o'clock at night, they found him busy with his subordinates. In a few moments, being at liberty, the General pleasantly asked Capt. Smith his business, and, on receiving a brief reply, gave him an order for the steamboat " Queen of the West," and also for ample supplies. Then, turning his piercing eyes on him, he smilingly said, with a look which Mr. Smith will never forget, " Captain, I would like to know what you did before you came into the army." Mr. Smith replied that he taught school. "I thought so," said the General. "No other man would have been so foolish as to run the lisk j'ou did to get here." Capt. Smith soon returned and released the boys from their perilous situation.

While stationed at Young's Point, near Vicksburg, together with about 300 or 400 sick soldiers, June 7, 1863, an alarm was given that the rebels were coming. There were few available men, and probably not fifty guns capable of execution. Death or capture seemed inevitable. There were some long ditches dug for the purpose of draining the land. Into one of these the men dropped for the purpose of using it as a rifle pit. The rebels seeing them, changed their course, when the other pit was appropriated, but was occupied but a few moments when the men were ordered to fall behind the levee. There was a narrow strip with two deep sloughs, one on either side, which led to the levee, and not more than fifty men could cross it abreast. At this point, behind the bank of the levee, which was about ten feet high, the Union troops took position, hoping to kill a number of rebels before they should all be killed. Capt. Smith took his position on top of the levee, but behind a tree, not being extremely anxious to be a mark for a rebel bullet. While there he saw the enemy halt, and the officers collect in front, evidently for consultation. After a moment's pause the enemy turned and marched away, greatly to the relief of the little band of sick soldiers. The Captain took an active part in the campaign in and around Vicksburg, but not being accustomed to coughing it, his health failed him and he was obliged to resign his commission.

In 1865 Mr. Smith came to Burlington, where he was Principal of the Iligli School for ten years. The marriage of Capt. Smitli and Miss Mary Bunce, who was born in Oneida County, N. Y., in 1817, was celebrated in Washington, "Washington Co., Pa., in 1842. By this union there are six children, three sons and three daughters: Frank W., a jeweler of Creston, Iowa; Lillie, a graduate of the Springfield Seminary of Springfield, Ohio; Clara, a graduate of the High School at Burlington; Ella, wife of J. W. Patterson; William C, a resident of Ft. Madison; and Albert A., local editor of the Burlington Gazette. Jlr. and Mrs. Smith are members of the Presbyterian Church.

As printed in the source². Wording is the original; obvious scanning errors have been corrected, and a few may remain.

J. W. SMITH, M. D.

Burlington has every reason to be proud of the medical profession as represented here, for on the whole its members are a class of men who recognize the obligations which devolve upon them and, holding to high professional ideals, are rendering valuable service to their fellows. Such is the record of Dr. Smith, who has now practiced in this city for about twelve years. He is a native of the neighboring state of Missouri, his birth having occurred in Memphis, August 26, 1869, his parents being James and Sarah A. (Smith) Smith. The father was a farmer by occupation and thus provided for his family.

Dr. Smith had the usual experiences of the lad who is reared in the middle west and depends upon the public schools for his educational training. After leaving the high school he entered the Barnes Medical College of St. Louis, in which he pursued the full course until graduated on the 9th of April, 1903, on which occasion his professional degree was conferred upon him. He immediately afterward came to Burlington, where he has since remained in general practice. The steps in his orderly progression are easily discernible.

He did not consider his education completed when he left college but has continued to read broadly and think deeply and has kept abreast with the onward march of the profession in every way.

On the 31st of December, 1895, Dr. Smith was united in marriage to Miss Lydia M. Wedertz, of Burlington, a daughter of Charles and Mary Wedertz. Her father was one of the pioneer settlers and early merchants of Burlington and was a very popular and prominent man, especially influential among the German-American citizens, and in various ways he left the impress of his individuality for good upon the upbuilding of this section.

Dr. Smith is a republican but with independent tendencies. He is well known in Masonic circles, holding membership in the lodge and chapter, and he also belongs to the Woodmen of the World, the Modern Woodmen of America, the Ancient Order of United Workmen, the Degree of Honor, the Court of Honor, the Woodmen Circle, the Loyal Order of Moose and the Mystic Workers. He is likewise a member of the Burlington Automobile Club, a fact which indicates something of the nature of his recreation. Geniality and cordiality have gained him popularity and Dr. Smith is now widely and favorably known in his adopted city.

As printed in the source³. Wording is the original; obvious scanning errors have been corrected, and a few may remain.